Leviticus 10:6

Then Moses said to Aaron and his sons Eleazar and Ithamar, "Do not let your hair become disheveled and do not tear your garments, or else you will die, and the LORD will be angry with the whole congregation. But your brothers, the whole house of Israel, may mourn on account of the fire that the LORD has ignited.

Study Bible

Then Moses said
The phrase "Then Moses said" indicates a direct communication from Moses, who serves as the intermediary between God and the Israelites. Moses, as a prophet and leader, is delivering God's instructions. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which often implies a command or authoritative speech. This highlights the gravity and divine authority behind the instructions being given.

to Aaron and his sons Eleazar and Ithamar
Aaron, the high priest, and his sons Eleazar and Ithamar are addressed directly. This is significant because they are the remaining priests after the death of Nadab and Abihu. The mention of their names underscores their roles and responsibilities in maintaining the sanctity of the priesthood. Historically, the priesthood was a sacred office, and those who held it were expected to adhere strictly to God's commands.

Do not let your hair become unkempt
This phrase refers to a specific mourning practice in ancient Israel, where letting one's hair become unkempt was a sign of grief. The Hebrew word "פָּרַע" (para) means to let loose or neglect. In this context, the priests are instructed to maintain their appearance, signifying their continued service and dedication to God despite personal loss. This command emphasizes the need for the priests to prioritize their divine duties over personal mourning.

and do not tear your clothes
Tearing one's clothes was another traditional expression of mourning and distress. The Hebrew word "קָרַע" (qara) means to rend or tear. By prohibiting this act, God is instructing the priests to maintain their composure and fulfill their roles without outward displays of grief. This reflects the principle that the service to God and the community takes precedence over individual sorrow.

or you will die
This warning underscores the seriousness of the command. The Hebrew word for "die" is "מוּת" (muth), which conveys the finality and severity of the consequence. It serves as a reminder of the holiness required in the priestly office and the dire consequences of disobedience. The gravity of this warning reflects the sanctity of God's presence and the need for absolute reverence.

and the LORD will be angry with the whole congregation
The phrase highlights the communal aspect of sin and disobedience. The Hebrew word for "angry" is "קָצַף" (qatsaph), which indicates a fierce wrath. This suggests that the actions of the priests have implications for the entire community, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the Israelites and the collective responsibility to uphold God's commands.

But your relatives, all the house of Israel
This part of the verse acknowledges the broader community of Israel, who are permitted to mourn. The phrase "all the house of Israel" indicates the collective identity and shared experiences of the Israelites. It reflects the communal nature of their faith and the shared responsibility in upholding God's laws.

may mourn for those the LORD has destroyed by fire
The phrase "destroyed by fire" refers to the divine judgment that befell Nadab and Abihu. The Hebrew word "שָׂרַף" (saraph) means to burn or consume, indicating the consuming fire of God's holiness. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of approaching God without reverence and obedience. The allowance for mourning by the community acknowledges the human aspect of loss while maintaining the sanctity of the priestly duties.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites and God's chosen prophet who communicates God's laws and instructions to the people.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel, responsible for the spiritual leadership of the people.

3. Eleazar and Ithamar
Sons of Aaron who were appointed as priests after the death of their brothers, Nadab and Abihu.

4. Nadab and Abihu
The sons of Aaron who were consumed by fire from the LORD for offering unauthorized fire before Him.

5. The LORD
The God of Israel, who establishes His holiness and the seriousness of His commands through His actions.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Reverence
God's holiness demands reverence and obedience. The priests were to maintain a demeanor that reflected their sacred duties.

Consequences of Disobedience
The severe consequences faced by Nadab and Abihu serve as a warning about the seriousness of disobedience to God's commands.

Role of Spiritual Leaders
Spiritual leaders are held to a higher standard and must model obedience and reverence to God.

Community Responsibility
The actions of individuals, especially leaders, can impact the entire community, highlighting the interconnectedness of the body of believers.

Appropriate Mourning
While mourning is natural, there are times when God's commands require a different response, emphasizing the priority of His instructions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to Aaron and his sons in Leviticus 10:6 reflect the importance of maintaining holiness in leadership roles?

2. In what ways can the account of Nadab and Abihu serve as a warning for us today regarding our approach to worship and obedience?

3. How does the concept of community responsibility in Leviticus 10:6 relate to the New Testament teachings on the body of Christ?

4. What lessons can we learn from the prohibition against certain mourning practices for Aaron and his sons, and how can these lessons apply to our lives?

5. How can we ensure that our actions as believers reflect the reverence and obedience that God requires, as demonstrated in Leviticus 10:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 21:10-12
This passage also addresses the conduct of priests, emphasizing the importance of maintaining holiness and the prohibition against certain mourning practices.

Numbers 20:28
This verse describes the transfer of the priesthood from Aaron to Eleazar, highlighting the continuity of priestly duties and responsibilities.

1 Samuel 2:12-17
The account of Eli's sons, who also disrespected God's commands, serves as a parallel to the consequences faced by Nadab and Abihu.

Hebrews 12:28-29
This New Testament passage reminds believers of the importance of reverence and awe in worship, echoing the lessons from Leviticus.